How to Layer Your Skincare Products (Without Losing Your Mind)

Have you ever walked out of Ulta with a shiny new skincare kit—or left your facial glowing and excited—only to get home and think… wait, how do I use all this again?

You're not alone.

The number one question I get from clients after a facial is: “What’s the correct order for my skincare products?” And I totally get it. Whether you’re using a curated set from your esthetician or building your skincare routine from scratch, figuring out the right way to apply everything can feel overwhelming.

In this post, I’m sharing a step-by-step guide to layering your skincare—including the best order to apply skincare products, how often to use them, and how to build a skincare routine that actually fits your life and delivers results.

First things first: Build a skincare routine that fits you

Whether you’re a skincare minimalist or love a full-blown ritual, the most effective skincare routine is one that fits your skin goals, your lifestyle, and your personality.

Some people need a simple, 2-step regimen. Others thrive on layering multiple serums, creams, and treatments. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach—and you don’t need a 10-step routine to have healthy, glowing skin.

That said, there are two essential skincare steps everyone needs (yes, everyone!). Everything else? Consider it customizable.

Step 1: Cleanser

When: Morning + night Why: To remove dirt, oil, makeup, and dead skin—so your products can actually do their job.

Proper cleansing is the foundation of any effective skincare routine. No matter how many fancy products you use, they can’t penetrate if there’s a layer of oil, dirt, and dead skin on the surface. Even dry or sensitive skin needs cleansing.

If you wear makeup or SPF, start with an oil-based cleanser or a gentle double cleanse to remove buildup. And please don’t use bar soap or body wash—those formulas are too harsh and often the root cause of dryness, breakouts, or irritation.

Pro tip: If you’re only going to cleanse once a day, make it at night. Never go to bed with a dirty face.

Step 2: Exfoliation (optional, but strategic)

When: Once every 10 days (if needed) Why: To remove dead skin cells and encourage cellular turnover

Exfoliating helps smooth texture, brighten the complexion, and clear clogged pores—but most people do it way too often. Over-exfoliating weakens your skin barrier, leading to irritation, breakouts, redness, and more.

Unless you have very congested skin or are treating acne, I don’t usually recommend daily or even weekly exfoliation at home. A gentle exfoliator every 10 days is plenty for most people—especially if you’re getting regular facial treatments.

Step 3: Toner

When: After cleansing Why: To balance your skin’s pH and prep for serums.

Toners have come a long way. While they were once just astringents, modern toners can hydrate, soothe, and prep your skin for deeper product penetration. Still, if you’re using a clean, pH-balanced cleanser, you might not need one daily.

If you do choose to use a toner, apply it right after cleansing and before any active serums.

Step 4: Treatment Serums & Actives

When: Morning or night (depending on the formula) Why: To treat specific concerns like acne, aging, hyperpigmentation, and dryness

Serums are your treatment step—the powerhouse of any targeted skincare routine. Whether you’re using vitamin C for brightening, hyaluronic acid for hydration, or retinol for fine lines and acne, this step should always come right after toner (or cleanser, if you’re skipping toner).

Apply serums based on your skin concerns and always follow product-specific instructions for frequency. Not sure what serum is right for you? That’s where personalized skincare guidance comes in handy (we offer that!).

Step 5: Moisturizer + SPF

When: Morning and night (SPF in the morning only) Why: To lock in hydration and protect your skin from environmental damage

This is your seal-it-in step. Moisturizer keeps your skin soft, hydrated, and balanced, while SPF protects your skin from harmful UV rays that cause premature aging, sunspots, and skin cancer.

While it’s tempting to use a 2-in-1 moisturizer with SPF, I usually recommend two separate products. Why? Because your moisturizer should absorb, and your SPF should sit on top to shield the skin. When combined, they often don’t perform either function as well.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple & Personal

There’s no “perfect” routine—only the one that works best for you. And with so many skincare products and routines out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

At our spa, we take a personalized approach. Every custom skincare routine we create is based on your skin goals, condition, and lifestyle. We’re here to simplify your routine, not complicate it.

Still feeling a little lost? Our Skin Strategy Facial is the perfect place to start. It’s a luxury treatment meets expert consultation designed to give you glowing skin and the confidence to care for it at home.

Glow on, gorgeous – Love Tawnya